Priest to bring message of healing to Crystal Lake

By NORTHWEST HERALD

CRYSTAL LAKE – The Rev. Michael Lapsley was a young priest involved in the anti-apartheid struggle in South Africa when, in April 1990, he opened a letter bomb sent by the South African regime. It exploded and he lost both hands, an eye and some hearing.

After his recovery, Lapsley began to work with survivors of torture and trauma, first in South Africa and later around the world.

Out of this work he developed healing workshops, and these led to the founding of the Institute for the Healing of Memories, The Forgiveness Project, and The International Network for Peace.

Lapsley will visit Crystal Lake on Monday for a luncheon presentation at the First Congregational Church of Crystal Lake, 461 Pearson St., Crystal Lake.

The lunch is free, but reservations are required by calling 815-459-6010. Donations toward Lapsley's work will be appreciated.

Lapsley’s book, "Redeeming the Past: My Journey from Freedom Fighter to Healer," may be available at the presentations.

Lapsley also will make a presentation at 7 p.m. Monday at the United Protestant Church of Grayslake, 54 S. Whitney, Grayslake. On Tuesday, he will speak at 7 p.m. at the First Congregational Church of Glen Ellyn, 535 Forest Ave., Glen Ellyn.

For information, contact the Rev. Budd Friend-Jones at 815-459-6010 or budd@fcc-cl.org or Merlyn Lawrence at 847-223-8131 or PastorMerlynLawrence@merol.com)